Consider whether you can continue to care for the
perpetrator of domestic violence and child abuse as well as the
victims
Within UK general practice a GP will often be caring for both
the perpetrator and the abused. A consensus document from the US
felt that this was not necessarily a conflict of interest (25).
However, GPs may feel unable to provide support to both sides
equitably, especially to the perpetrator. Each situation should be
considered independently. A GP needs to make an explicit decision
about whether to continue to care for both parties. If it is
difficult to continue to care for the perpetrator, this needs to be
conveyed clearly and in a way that does not increase the danger to
anyone, including the GP. However, a GP is ethically obliged to
ensure that the perpetrator receives ongoing care and should refer
on to another doctor.